Detroit Lions: How Long Can They Stay Unbeaten?

The Detroit Lions are 3-0 for the first time since the Carter administration was in the White House.

Suddenly everyone is drinking Lions Kool-Aid and rightfully so; this team has looked rather impressive to begin the 2011 season.

They have shown they can win in different ways. From the close game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, to the blowout over the Kansas City Chiefs, to the comeback against the Minnesota Vikings.

No one expects the Lions to remain undefeated forever, and so that begs the question: Who will beat them first?

Detroit's next three opponents are the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears and  San Francisco 49ers.

Each of these teams pose their respective problems for the Lions. Lets analyze how each of them stack up against Detroit.

Week 4: Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys present a unique challenge for the Lions because of their dominance against the run. Through two weeks, Dallas is second in the league with only 59.5 rushing yards allowed per game.

Detroit has enough trouble rushing the ball without having to worry about such an imposing defensive line.

Minnesota exploited the Lions offensive line in Week 3. It sacked Matthew Stafford five times and only allowed Jahvid Best to rush for 14 yards on 12 attempts.

If the Cowboys follow this blueprint, they can cause a lot of problems for Detroit's offensive line. Jeff Backus and Gosder Cherilus in particular have struggled to start the season, so look for Dallas to attack them vehemently.

Luckily for the Lions, Dallas is only averaging 54 yards rushing itself. So Detroit will be able to key in on the Cowboys' superb passing game.

With this game being in Dallas, and these teams having similar strengths, it looks like a potential toss-up. This will be a tough matchup for the Lions.

Week 5: Chicago Bears

This is perhaps the most exciting game on the Detroit Lions' schedule. For the first time since 2001, Detroit will appear on Monday Night Football.

The Ford Field crowd is likely to create one of the best atmospheres the Honolulu blue have ever experienced.

When analyzing the actual matchup, the Bears are no cake-walk. The front seven will attack the Lions just as much as Dallas will in Week 4.

Last season, Julius Peppers caused the injury to Matthew Stafford's shoulder. This year, he should again have no trouble running circles around left tackle Jeff Backus.

What Chicago lacks is great secondary play. Brian Urlacher leads the team with just one interception. Brandon Meriweather is a nice addition at safety, but the Bears don't match up well with Detroit's receivers.

Stafford and Calvin Johnson should have a great game and continue their dominance.

The Lions' return to Monday Night Football will likely result in a victory.

Week 6: San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco will attack the Lions with a tough defensive line for the fourth straight week.

If Detroit is going to win, it will be because of the play of its passing game. This is nothing new to the Lions, however. Matthew Stafford and his receivers have proved they're up to the task so far this season.

The 49ers' offense has been anemic to say the least. Alex Smith is yet to become a viable NFL starter, and the rushing game is non-existent.

What helps San Francisco is that this may be a potential trap game for the Lions. Detroit will be coming off an exhilarating Monday Night Football game against the Bears, and will be playing within the friendly confines of Ford Field for the second straight week.

Jim Schwartz does not seem like the type of coach to allow mental breakdowns from his football team, but it is something to watch, nonetheless.

If all goes according to plan. look for Detroit to have no problems beating San Francisco.